WASHINGTON: US President Donald Trump has suggested he may reduce tariffs on China to facilitate a deal involving TikTok, the popular video app with 170 million American users. Trump stated on March 26 that he is prepared to offer concessions in tariffs to gain China's approval for a sale of TikTok's US operations, which must occur by an April 5 deadline. “Maybe I’ll give them a little reduction in tariffs or something to get it done,” he remarked, underlining the necessity for China's involvement in the negotiations.

The backdrop to these discussions is the U.S. law requiring ByteDance, TikTok’s Chinese parent company, to divest the app or face a national ban due to national security concerns related to potential data exploitation by Beijing. The law came into effect on January 19, a day before Trump himself was inaugurated, although he extended the deadline through executive order.

Recent discussions have indicated interest from several potential buyers for TikTok's US operations. Trump noted, “We will have a form of a deal,” adding that if negotiations drag on, he is willing to extend the deadline further. However, the ongoing trade tensions loom large, with tariffs on all imports from China recently doubling to 20%. Trump's initial 10% tariff was enacted during his first month in office, which has since escalated the trade conflict.

China's response to Trump's tariff reduction proposal was swift, with spokesperson Guo Jiakun reiterating that increased tariffs would not benefit either side, as reported by India Times. Beijing's Foreign Ministry emphasized the need for an open and fair business environment, criticizing the US for undermining trade stability.

Additionally, at the Boao Forum—a significant gala dubbed "China's Davos"—Chinese officials have cautioned against protectionist measures while urging global cooperation. The tension regarding TikTok’s future amidst such geopolitical dynamics underscores the complexities involved in finalizing a deal.

The outcome remains uncertain, with multiple stakeholders, including influencers and tech companies showing interest in acquiring the app. As negotiations continue, the implications of Trump's tariff bargaining strategy remain to be fully realized.

For more detailed information on this developing story, refer to the original articles from The Hill, Reuters, and New York Times.